Sydney: External Affairs Minister SM Krishna reached Canberra in Australia on Thursday for his five-day visit with racial attacks against Indian community high on agenda.
Soon after landing in Canberra, Krishna went to Sydney to and expressed his concern over racist attacks during a meeting with the Indian community.
The External Affairs Minister assured the Indian community that the Government of India was fully with them on the issue of alleged racial attacks against some Indians Down Under.
"Well being and safety of Indians overseas is a top priority for the Government of India," Krishna told the Indian community.
He also claimed that Indians who came to Australia a few years back faced no problem in the country.
He also said that the government would now ensure that whenever a student applied for visa for education in Australia, a CD and brochure would be provided that would educate the student about Australian culture and society.
The Indian community leaders demanded that immediate action by Australian government in every case was necessary and asked Krishna to tell the Australian authorities to be more cooperative. They, however, also admitted during the meeting that Australia was not a racist country.
Meanhlei, Australia assured safety for Indian students.
"Australia is a safe country. Task force to look after the needs of international students, migration agents will be hauled for misguidance. A meeting will be held by task force tomorrow, all recommendations will be implemented soon. Safety, accommodation,cultural adjustments,immigration issues will be taken care of. Inputs from the Indian community will be included in the action plan for international students. We will take firm action on attackers in New South Wales," said New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees.
Krishna will also visit Melbourne and meet Indian community there.
He will also hold bilateral talks with his Australian counterpart Stephen Smith and Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
The Indian minister will discuss ban on uranium exports by Australia and put across India's view on non-proliferation during the discussions.
Australian has maintained that it won't review its policy on uranium export to India unless India signs the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
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